Why Professional Real Estate Photos Matter
They say a picture is worth 1000 words. In reality, a picture can be worth thousands of dollars.
Taking photos isn’t hard. Taking professional quality photos that help showcase a home so that it sells for top dollar is another matter.
We know that at least 90 percent of home buyers use the Internet in their home search process and photos play a huge role in whether or not they consider seeing a home in person. First impressions matter and having abundant, high-quality photos can be the difference between months on the market and thousands of dollars in selling price. Some studies have shown that homes that had photos taken professionally with a DSLR camera sold for significantly higher than those with just a point-and-shoot-camera, or a smart phone.
Now that most phones have cameras with 10 megapixels or higher camera, some Realtors simply snap their own photos with their phone, load them onto the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) and call it a day. Heck, we’ve seen listings where real estate agents simply swiped a photo from Google Streetview.
Yet a great photo can capture the true look and feel of a home, giving it emotional appeal. And let’s face it, many home purchases are not only based on finances but also on emotion. Home is where the heart is and it’s hard to fall in love with a poorly lit, out-of-focus dwelling.
In the past year, we’ve had the opportunity to list two properties that had previously been on the market with other Realtors and the difference in photos — and outcomes — was striking. In one case, we listed a Long Beach home that had been on the market with another Realtor for more than 400 days. Yes, well over a year. With our photos and marketing, it sold in 12 days.
Take a look at how our professionally taken photos compared to those that had previously represented this home:
Can you just back the car out before I take this pic? Great, thanks.
Before awesome pictures
What’s this? Has Apollo blessed this land with eternal sunshine?
After awesome pictures
This kitchen isn’t “CSI’y” enough. Please add a terror cage in front of the dishwasher.
Before awesome pictures
Thank you, it’s perfect. Now, is anyone thirsty?
Before awesome pictures
Omg who did your kitchen? Could they do mine?
After awesome pictures
I guess this is a pretty okay patio…
Before awesome pictures
Could we have the BBQ at your place this year? CANNON BALL!!!
After awesome pictures
In another case, we listed a downtown Long Beach condominium that had previously been visually represented with photos taken by the previous agent’s iPhone. The primary photo had been a shot of a telescope in the master bedroom, which overlooked another building. Not necessarily the message they wanted to send.
Um…I don’t think it’s the sky he’s trying to get a view of…
Before awesome pictures
I don’t always sleep, but when I do, it’s on a satin cloud made of dreams.
After awesome pictures
“Bathtime? Do I haaavve tooo?”
Before awesome pictures
You mean I can wash my hands while I wash my hands? Now that’s luxury.
After awesome pictures
Could we get some lights on in here? I don’t think I have enough exposure.
Before awesome pictures
If Ikea and Home Depot made a baby…
After awesome pictures
Good job! You can screenshot Google maps for your exterior shots!
Before awesome pictures
Now, I could see myself coming home to this everyday…
After awesome pictures
Bottom line: If you’re planning to sell your home, you want to make sure it’s showcased by a professional photographer who understands how to utilize angles, lighting and proper focal points to accentuate the best your property has to offer. Many buyers purchase homes based on emotional appeal and a great photo will invoke that.
The Shannon Jones Team hires top professional photographers for each listing, whether it’s a one-bedroom condo or a million-dollar beachfront mansion. We know it’s one of the reasons our listings consistently sell faster and for a higher percentage of listing price than many of our competitors.
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